Discovering the Semantic Network of the Three Concepts of Indulgence, Forgiveness, and Forgiveness in the Holy Quran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD student in Islamic Ethics Teaching, Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran (Corresponding Author).

2 Department of Religions and Mysticism, Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction: This study aims to analyze and reconstruct the semantic network of three key Qur’anic terms: ʿAfw (pardon), Ṣafḥ (overlooking), and Ighmāḍ (forbearance\leniency). Although these concepts are semantically related, each possesses a distinct position and function in the ethical structure of the Qur’an. Using lexical semantics grounded in the Izutsuian approach, the research explores how these terms operate through semantic components, collocations, paradigmatic relations, and conceptual fields.
Findings: Findings indicate that ʿAfw is deeply associated with attributes such as iḥsān (benevolence), ḥilm (forbearance), and ghufrān (forgiveness), and stems from conscious inner virtue—typically enacted in a context of authority and with reformative intent. Ṣafḥ refers to respectful turning away without punitive action, suggesting dignified restraint. Conversely, ighmāḍ denotes an intentional “closing of the eyes” to faults, potentially motivated by fear, generosity, or affection, and often manifests without confrontation.
Discussion: The semantic distribution of these terms across various Qur’anic verses demonstrates their role in different moral, social, and pedagogical contexts. Furthermore, the study reveals their interconnectedness with related terms such as tawba (repentance), raḥma (mercy), faḍl (grace), ʿiqāb (punishment), and jazāʾ (recompense), all of which form an extended conceptual field central to the Qur’an’s ethical discourse. Employing both micro-level (componential analysis) and macro-level (field mapping) perspectives, the research proposes a systemic model of Qur’anic forgiveness semantics. The study also incorporates exegetical and lexical sources—including Mufradāt (Ragheb), Majmaʿ
al-Bayān (Tabarsi), and Tafsīr al-Mīzān (Tabatabaʾi)—to contextualize and differentiate the nuances of these concepts. Ultimately, this paper underscores that semantic network analysis offers a robust tool for uncovering the Qur’an’s ethical system and deepening understanding of its foundational moral logic.

Keywords

References

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Interdisciplinary Studies in Ethics
Volume 1, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
April 2025
Pages 221-242

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History

  • Receive Date: 07 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 01 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 22 July 2025
  • First Publish Date: 24 September 2025
  • Publish Date: 22 November 2025

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